English Corner

Visits to Punta del Este, a resort in the southeast of Uruguay. Picture: Leandro Hernandez

Uruguay, a charming travel destination

Uruguay, a hidden gem rich in contrast, offers the perfect retreat after exploring the highlights of Argentina or Brazil.

Often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, Uruguay is an insider's secret waiting to be discovered. With its lush green landscapes, stunning coastal beaches, and charming colonial architecture, the country is increasingly attracting the attention of travelers seeking a unique South American experience.

After visiting the highlights and lively tourist hotspots of Brazil or Argentina, a stay in the quiet neighbouring country of Uruguay is an attractive option. Uruguay is easy to reach with a 50-minute flight from Buenos Aires to Montevideo or a ferry crossing from Buenos Aires to Colonia de Sacramento that takes about an hour.

A relaxed and inviting atmosphere unfolds in Uruguay. Colourful house facades, cobblestone alleys and colonial buildings characterise the cities of Montevideo and Colonia de Sacramento. Here, the pace of life is slower than in the metropolises of Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro or Sao Paulo.

Enormous expanse, beautiful estancias

What is it that makes Uruguay so appealing to her? Gabriela Stauffer, General Manager of Central and South American specialist Dorodo Latin Tours, answers: ‘I like the vast landscapes of Uruguay, the charming estancias for lodging, the vineyards, the food and the beautiful beach resorts in Punta del Este or José Ignacio. And there are fewer tourists.’ Uruguay is ideal for winding down, as a nice end to a three-week trip around South America.

Uruguay, with its endless pastures and huge cattle ranches, is a country of farmers. Various estancias, large farms, open their doors to tourists and offer an insight into the everyday activities of a large farm. And horse fans can experience the life of a gaucho on rides through the wide open spaces.

A round trip in a rented car is generally recommended to fully experience the country’s estancias, cities and beaches. Travel is primarily focused on the southern half, of the country where most attractions lie, as the northern region consists of vast grasslands blending into marshlands.

Season from October to April

In terms of cost, Uruguay is one of the more expensive countries in South America. The additional costs are at a European level. ‘One reason for the higher price is the relatively short season from October to April, during which the majority of hotels have to generate their turnover,’ explains South America expert Gabriela Stauffer.

It is well known that meat lovers get their money's worth in Argentina and Uruguay. But vegetarians are not neglected either, as Gabriela Stauffer assures us: ‘Soybean cultivation has been significantly expanded in recent years. And it's worth noting the many top restaurants in Uruguay and Argentina don't just focus on meat dishes.’

Gabriela Stauffer comments on the current demand for travel to Latin America: ‘Costa Rica has seen a huge increase in recent years. Now, though, we are seeing a saturation, with many Swiss people having visited Costa Rica in the meantime. At the same time, we are seeing a pleasing trend in terms of travel to Argentina, Chile and Uruguay.’

The option of a week-long trip to the Antarctic is also in high demand, as the head of Dorado Latin Tours mentions. The flight takes you from Punta Arenas in Chile to King George Island, and from there, in the following days, an expedition ship will take you to see mighty glaciers, shimmering blue icebergs, seals and penguins.

(GWA)